Welcome to Travel Massive.
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This page contains 5 sections: developer log, member activity, latest posts, upcoming meetups, and classified ads.
Here's 10 things that happened most recently:
Here's the 10 most recent posts:
On August 13, as part of the Demo Day (organized by Rostelecom jointly with Corteos Platform), 10 projects that had been selected for the [Accelerator](www.company.rt.ru/projects/startups/accelerator/) presented their projects.
The projects were evaluated by the competition jury, among the experts were representatives of Norilsk Nickel, Lanit, RT-Inform (ROSTEKH), Demlink, N TRAVEL, Beeline, MTS, the Russian Union of Travel Industry (RST) and the Travel Startups community.
Congratulations to the winners of the pitch competition:
* 1st place was taken by the [2ROOMZ](2roomz.ru/en/) project, which helps hotels with the sale of additional services and communication with guests, as well as the optimization of operational processes and daily tasks.
* 2nd place was shared by Travel.stat, a service for analyzing the cost of accommodation services offered by OTAs and comparing hotels and rooms from different suppliers, and [RentHouse](reho24.ru/program), a platform for uniting the short-term rental market into a single digital system.
* 3rd place was awarded to the [Aiso](aiso.team) project, which develops products for automating booking business processes based on deep machine learning and its own dialog model.
Rostelecom and Corteos Platform will conduct full-scale piloting of all winning projects on their infrastructure, as well as on the infrastructure of their partners.
The [Travel Startups](www.facebook.com/groups/travel.startups.russia/) community acted as a partner of the accelerator. We will share more about these projects in the [@TravelStartups](t.me/travelstartups) Telegram channel. If you want to discuss cooperation with these projects, contact [Leonid Pustov](www.travelmassive.com/@leonid-pustov), I'll introduce you.
At Innoviet Travel, we believe that travel should be a multi-sensory experience. That's why we invite you to "Taste Vietnam with Your 6 Senses." Our unique approach allows you to engage fully with the sights, sounds, tastes, smells, and textures of this incredible country, while also embracing the sixth sense —your intuition and connection to the local culture.
🌿 Sight: Explore breathtaking landscapes, from the lush rice terraces of Sapa to the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Our carefully curated itineraries ensure you don't miss the iconic sights and hidden gems.
👂 Sound: Immerse yourself in the sounds of Vietnam, whether it's the bustling markets, traditional music performances, or the serene sounds of nature in the countryside.
🍽️ Taste: Indulge in authentic Vietnamese cuisine, from street food delights to exquisite dining experiences. Our local guides will introduce you to the flavors that make Vietnamese food a culinary treasure.
👃 Smell: Experience the aromatic spices and fresh ingredients that fill the air in local markets and kitchens, giving you a true sense of the country's culinary heritage.
✋ Touch: Engage with local artisans and craftspeople, learning about traditional crafts and hands-on experiences that connect you to the heart of Vietnamese culture.
💫 Intuition: Trust your instincts as you navigate through vibrant cities and serene landscapes, allowing the spirit of Vietnam to inspire and guide your journey.
Join us at innoviet.com as we embark on this exciting adventure to discover Vietnam through all six senses. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip, we're here to create unforgettable experiences that resonate with your soul.
I love the food tour in the hidden alleys of Saigon and it's true that travel is all about our senses.
Universal Orlando Resort is a world renowned destination that captivates visitors with its thrilling rides, immersive attractions, and magical experiences. While the park is designed to offer excitement for all, Universal Orlando is also committed to ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy the wonders it has to offer. In this blog post, we'll explore the various accessibility features and services that make Universal Orlando an inclusive and welcoming destination for guests of all abilities.
Full blog post:
www.holidaywiththeheathers.com/post/creating-magic-for-all-a-guide-to-accessibility-at-universal-orlando
Luxembourg is an excellent destination for a long weekend trip. In just three days, you can visit a lot. From Belgium and the Netherlands, it's a maximum of 3 hours' drive, depending on which part of Luxembourg you visit. Despite being one of the smallest countries in Europe, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg has a lot to offer. The nature is extraordinarily beautiful, with Northern Luxembourg often referred to as Little Switzerland for a reason. Culturally, there is much to discover, with numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites to visit, and gastronomically, you will not be astonished too.
Additionally, every season has its charms, making the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg a year-round destination. For us, it was the ideal combination of enjoying nature, culture, and a city trip in Luxembourg City. Getting around is very easy with public transport, which is free for everyone.
Full article at www.destinationexplorer.world/post/is-luxembourg-worth-visiting-of-course-it-is-check-this-travel-guide
Hi all very happy to share a blogpost for the first time on Travel Massive. If you have any questions on visiting Luxembourg let me know!
Bianca Graulau is a Puerto Rican journalist who has written extensively (muckrack.com/bianca-graulau) on marginalised communities and the environment with a focus on the Americas. This video (by and of her) looks at the impact of tourism in Oaxaca Mexico, and is a really deft piece of work highlighting the challenges writers can face reporting comprehensively on some of the issues around tourism.
While I can’t speak to the situation specific to Oaxaca, though take my word for it they’re a big deal in Southeast Asia lol, but these challenges are global, and sometimes I don’t think general readers really understand just how much self-censorship is required by the writer to avoid issues such as harassment, arrest, and deportation—even when writing about a supposed soft issue like tourism.
Anyways, if you have an interest in this kinda thing, it is definitely worth the 20 minutes of your time you’ll need to watch it.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=wLEuid8jUhQ
Thanks for sharing, Stuart.
I guess the lesson learned here is that you need to do due diligence on your media partners when making films like this. Perhaps the collaborators were naive and thought they'd get a fluff piece of PR for their clients.
On the flipside, the narrative of "locals get screwed by big tourism companies" seems to be almost a universal story in any place with a tourism economy. It's still an important story to tell — so it's a shame that people's voices weren't heard after all of Bianca's efforts.
Very interesting,.
Yes, as someone who has lived in Oaxaca for 8 years, and operating positive-impact tours here with local guides, I can vouch for her research and experience, that sadly it is true with so much of the old tourism practices here. High-end hotels and restaurants paying below liveable (and sometimes below minimum) wages to personnel - minivan scam-tourism tactics paying little to nothing to the local hosts of artisanal and ancestral practices, trying to pump through as many people in a day as possible, with plans of enforced upsells and pressure sales at various stops along the way.
It's a hard system to break and reform, but certainly one we've been fighting up-stream against for years... and changes are happening. Some tour companies getting B-Corp ratings, some hotels which are giving back proceeds to local projects and fair liveable wages to staff, some community driven enterprises in the tourism space, women-owned and empowered businesses... change is slow, but progress is being made :)
This weekend, Telegram's CEO and Founder Pavel Durov was arrested when he landed in France. There's a hundred news articles about it if you'd like to learn the specifics.
Here's a story about it from Wired: www.wired.com/story/telegram-ceo-pavel-durov-arrest/
You might be wondering what this story has to do with travel, or Travel Massive.
If you're a member of Travel Massive, you've probably heard of Telegram or use it. It's a chat app similar to WhatsApp, Messenger, LINE (popular in Thailand, Japan), KakaoTalk (Korea), WeChat (China), etc. If you travel to parts of Central Asia, Russia, or Indonesia you'll probably need Telegram to keep in touch with locals you meet.
In terms of community building, Telegram excels at group chat. For example — we've got an Almaty Travel Massive Telegram group that is very active with our community in Kazakhstan. I'm a regular user of Telegram and keep in touch with a few people on it from other countries, thanks to the in-built translation tool.
What concerns me about the arrest of Telegram's CEO is that all these wonderful communication tools we've built to keep in touch with people around the world are at risk. Arresting Pavel Durov won't shut down Telegram, but it gives France (and the EU) a bargaining chip to force them to make changes to the network on their terms.
Although we're much smaller than Telegram, Travel Massive is another wonderful creation of the Internet, and this community only exists because we could freely connect and organise on social platforms like Telegram. If social networks become more restricted, we're only going to become less connected and less informed.
All social networks and forums need moderation (even around here). I get as much spam on Telegram as on Facebook or any other network. In my opinion, Pavel's arrest is not about moderation, but about censorship.
As travelers, we know how valuable international friendships and connections are. A threat to Telegram or any global communications app is a threat to travellers and international tourism businesses staying connected.
Arresting founders of social media companies is not normal, and we shouldn't be going down this path.
Free Pavel!
Would say this very much is an issue of content moderation rather than censorship. Telegram is pretty much by definition a bad actor, with complete disdain for moderation, hosting of vile content (CSAM), and one that badly misrepresents its supposed levels of encryption. There’s a good and nuanced discussion below on the issues at play on my favourite podcast dedicated to content moderation (yes I need to get out more). Alex & Evelyn really know their stuff.
pca.st/episode/d4c98a9b-2c80-4475-b503-6b9ca2d4d50c
Listening to the podcast now, super interesting. I still don't agree that arresting Pavel Durov is a good pathway to a better online world.
I completely agree. As Stuart pointed out regarding Telegram's poor reputation, it seems we're approaching a point where those who manage social platforms might be held accountable for the content created by their users. This could inevitably lead to active censorship, which would spell a grim future for Telegram.
Planning a trip to England? englandrover.com is your independent source of travel information with articles and videos about how to get around, what to see and do, and where to stay on your next trip to England.
Hi, my name's Tim and I've been running England Rover since 2018. The goal of the site is to be the most comprehensive independent site for anyone travelling around England.
In April this year, I launched a YouTube channel to complement the website with videos every two weeks about travelling in England (usually a review of a hotel or tourist attraction).
It's the only YouTube channel to use a biscuit-based hotel rating system (because everyone can relate to biscuits).
Check out the YouTube channel here: www.youtube.com/@EnglandRover
We've recently made the switch from WordPress to Beehiiv to focus purely on delivering the content our readers love. In the process, we decided to let go of some of the extras that, while fun to build, didn’t really add value to our readers experience.
We're thrilled to have relaunched travelingbloke.com on Beehiiv, and we’d love for you to check it out and subscribe if it resonates with you.
Thanks so much for your continued support!
Hey Sam, what's the biggest difference between Wordpress and Beehiiv? It looks like Beehiiv is built around newsletters (similar to substack).
Also, what happens to your content if Beehiiv decides to censor you or shut down? Can you back it up?
Checked out the new site and it feels so clean and focused
How are you enjoying the Beehiiv platform so far?
Would love to hear your thoughts on what’s been working well :)
Meta recently launched an "AI Studio" that allows people to generate AI versions of themselves to chat with their audiences on Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp. The tool also allows users to browse and interact with other people's AI characters. It's currently available in the US only.
Has anyone here "cloned" themselves with this new tech? And in general, what do you think about it?
I did not have the occasion to play with the tech yet but I would be interested in seeing how well it captures someone's personality.
While I would not find any practical use myself, I could see it being adopted by influencers with millions of followers who can't deal with the daily influx of DMs, or as a way to filter the most interesting messages. But not sure I would enjoy knowing I'm talking to a bot 😅
In a similar style, I recently read about Retrograde, an AI-powered agent for content creators to negotiate deals and manage some admin tasks. Found the article here: www.uktech.news/ai/grace-beverley-ai-talent-manager-content-creators-20240730
Living in a town like Sojuela in northern Spain has unique benefits: the tranquility of the surroundings, the closeness to nature, the fresh air and the possibility of creating authentic relationships with people who share your values.
In this special corner of La Rioja, we want to attract free spirits from all over Europe and beyond, bringing new life to our charming villages. This initiative not only offers a place to work and live together, but also seeks to connect people with nature and with each other, encouraging a more balanced and conscious life.
If you are a telecommuter or a lover of nature and co-living, this space is for you!
My name is Iulian, I am manager of Co-living Sojuela Joven.
We are currently looking for new colivers to come and stay with us!
Here, every sunrise is an invitation to enjoy a simpler and fuller lifestyle, where the stress of the city is left behind and doors open to new opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Imagine waking up every day surrounded by the natural beauty of Sojuela, working on projects you are passionate about and sharing ideas with people who share your vision of the world. This 'Co-living' is an opportunity to reflect on our lifestyle, value community and find a deeper purpose in what we do.
Join us in this communal adventure, where online work is combined with human connection and community living.
HERE'S THE NEXT 5 UPCOMING EVENTS:
Hey, Amsterdam Travel Massive community!
We're invited by Cityfans to join them on one of their tours on Tuesday evening the 3rd of September. They are the true masters of digital city exploration and turn every city into adventure maps. Come play an outdoor escape game, network over puzzles, and discover everything about this new, wonderful world of immersive exploration with Cityfans!
1. We will gather at 18.00 at the Eye Museum stairs at 18:00 to form teams (or go solo if you're feeling brave).
2. Then, it's game time. Teams follow the clues using the game app. Make sure those phones are charged up, okay? The game takes about 1.5 hours to finish, covering around 3km. So, comfy shoes are a plus.
At the end of the game, each team heads to De Werkplek to exchange impressions and discuss the future of city exploration. And of course, enjoy a “pay what you want” pizza and beer time to wrap up the adventure in style.
Looking forward to see you all.
Link to event pageJoin our upcoming Travel Massive networking event, meet global tourism and hospitality professionals, and connect with the Media team of ITE HCMC 2024. Among our special guests, we will have international creators from Spain, Italy, Korea, and Australia who are coming to Vietnam to promote the destination.
The event will take place at Barson located at Le Meridien Hotel. They offer all attendees a special happy hour deal with a discounted drink menu.
📍 Location
Barson @ Le Meridien Hotel - 3C Tôn Đức Thắng, Bến Nghé, Quận 1
⏰ Time
4:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Event partners
Visit APAC
Vietnam Is Awesome
Media sponsor
Saigoneer
Special guests
Media team from ITE HCMC
This is an informal gathering to network with the regular Saigon chapter members and the global ITE HCMC visitors.
Please note that the number of guests is limited so register in advance if you would like to attend.
Looking forward to seeing you on September 6th!
Link to event pageWe're rebooting the Travel Massive's Las Vegas chapter.
Please join us for the first meetup event since 2020 to socialise with all old and new members of the community. Everyone who can relate to the travel industry are welcome to join (Tour operators, hotels, creators, restaurant owners, founders, and avid travellers).
Join us for an extraordinary Travel Massive event at the iconic Zappos HQ in Las Vegas! This is more than just a gathering—it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the legendary culture of a company known for setting the gold standard in customer service. During this tour in their beautiful, Downtown Las Vegas campus they will talk about their company culture, core values, employee engagement, and customer service.
Zappos, with its commitment to creating memorable experiences, offers invaluable lessons for anyone in the hospitality industry. Imagine spending a late afternoon in a space that breathes innovation and passion, where you can connect with like-minded professionals and discover how Zappos' approach to customer service can inspire and elevate your own practices. Whether you're looking to network, learn, or simply be inspired, this Travel Massive event will be memorable!
The tour will take place at 3.00PM at Zappos HQ (400 Stewart Ave, Las Vegas) and will take for about an hour. Please arrive 15 mins earlier for checkin. After the tour we will go to Bin 702 at the Container Park (0.4 miles walk). to enjoy some Happy Hour drinks together. If you can't make it to the tour, feel free to join from 4.30-6.00 for just the drinks.
Event details
⏱ Thursday 3PM, 12th of SEPTEMBER 2024
🎟️ Event registration is 25 USD to be paid in cash at Zappos. This covers the tour and the first round of drinks and snacks at Bin 702. After that any other drinks/food are available for purchase at Bin 702.
If you're looking meet new folks in the Lagos travel community and stay up to date on the latest industry trends, this is where you need to be. We’ll be having interesting knowledge sharing sessions, panel sessions, games, and lots of opportunity to network and meet new people in the industry. You don’t want to miss this!
Link to event pageThis September, visiting MOFOS Rooftop @ Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) HQ in South Bank, Travel Massive returns to Brisbane.
Join us Travel Massive and Stripe for an afternoon of insights and discussion with Stripe and a panel of travel and hospitality business leaders discussing how payment innovation is supercharging the digital economy.
This is an opportunity to network with other industry leaders over afternoon refreshments and hear from a panel of industry experts as they weigh in on the most exciting payment strategies transforming the industry.
The afternoon is also an opportunity to connect with Stripe's Travel, Transport and Leisure Lead James Lemon.
Stripe is a financial infrastructure platform for businesses. Millions of companies from the world's largest enterprises to the most ambitious start-ups use Stripe to accept payments, grow revenue and accelerate new business opportunities. Learn more at tmsv.co/stripe
Our panel of speakers include:
James Lemon, Global Lead - Travel, Transport, Leisure & Automotive, Stripe - Host and 🎤 Moderator
More speakers to be to be announced shortly!
⏱ Schedule of events:
3:30pm: Arrival, registration, coffee, and networking.
4:00pm: Welcome from Dennis Basham and Mark Gregory at Travel Massive
4:10pm: Panel: Innovation in Payments: Growth in Travel & Hospitality
5:00pm: Networking, refreshments and light bites
6:00pm: Event ends.
Travel Massive first timer or long-standing regular, we're looking forward to welcoming you.
📍 MOFOS Rooftop Bistro @ Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) HQ, South Bank, Brisbane.
🗓️ Date: 16th September 2024
🕕 Time: 3:30pm - 6:00pm
Questions about this event? Please email Matthew Gardiner: matthew@travelmassive.com.
👉 TIP: Be sure to complete your Travel Massive profile with a profile picture, company name and role so other attendees can learn about you!
Please note: When you register for this event (which must be done in advance) we will also be sharing your details with Stripe to allow us to process your registration and facilitate your access to the event. There may also be photography during the evening.
Link to event pageThis September, Travel Massive returns to Melbourne.
Join Travel Massive and Stripe for an evening of networking, food and drinks at QT Rootop Bar.
We're looking forward to bringing the Travel Massive community together for an evening of travel industry networking. This is a great opportunity to reconnect with old friends and make some new ones. Come and meet with like minded professionals from across the travel, hospitality and leisure sectors.
The evening is also an opportunity to connect with Stripe's Travel, Transport and Leisure Lead James Lemon.
Stripe is a financial infrastructure platform for businesses. Millions of companies from the world's largest enterprises to the most ambitious start-ups use Stripe to accept payments, grow revenue and accelerate new business opportunities. Learn more at tmsv.co/stripe
Travel Massive first timer or long-standing regular, we're looking forward to welcoming you.
📍 QT Rootop Bar, 11/133 Russell St, Melbourne
🗓️ Date: 17th September 2024
🕕 Time: 6pm - 9pm
Questions about this event? Please email Ian (Founder, Travel Massive): ian@travelmassive.com.
Please note: When you register for this event (which must be done in advance) we will also be sharing your details with Stripe to allow us to process your registration and facilitate your access to the event. There may also be photography during the evening.
👉 TIP: Be sure to complete your Travel Massive profile with a profile picture, company name and role so other attendees can learn about you!
Link to event pageHere's the 10 latest classified ads:
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